Bringing space into sharper focus: £1M for image sensor technology

Research into new technologies which help capture images from space is set to benefit from £1million sponsorship. The Open University’s Centre for Electronic Imaging (CEI) and technology firm e2v have committed to continue their collaboration in image sensor technology research for another five years.

The sponsorship of the CEI helps support the group’s research into the fundamental physics of imaging devices and their application and optimisation for high performance science applications such as the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Gaia mission, to be launched this week, and ESA’s Euclid mission to probe the ‘dark’ Universe. The collaboration also actively encourages the free exchange of knowledge and ideas through regular e2v staff visits, technical workshops and the supply of devices and equipment to support the research.

Professor of Electro-Optics at The Open University, Andrew Holland, said: “The CEI has worked closely with e2v in imaging sensor research for years, and the collaboration has been instrumental in the growth of the group. We have a unique relationship that balances the commercial needs of UK industry and the research goals of the academic community, and this agreement will ensure that our group continues to be a leader in the field of image sensor technology.”

The CEI maintains an active training programme in imaging sensor technologies. Its 8 PhD students, predominantly funded by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) and the e2v sponsorship on the Collaborative Awards in Science and Engineering (CASE) programme, work at the cutting-edge of imaging sensor research, many in support of future space missions and science experiments. The sponsorship also funds the training of e2v staff though continuing professional development workshops held at The Open University. This training is also offered to other space industries as part of their internal continuing professional development (CPD).

About e2v: e2v is a leading global provider of specialist technology for high performance systems and equipment; delivering solutions, sub-systems and components for applications within medical & science, aerospace & defence, and commercial & industrial markets.e2v employs approximately 1600 people, has design and operational facilities across Europe, North America and Asia, and has a global network of sales and technical support offices. e2v has annual sales of GBP200m and is listed on the London Stock Exchange.